Jae’Sean Tate Targets Return for Rockets’ Oct. 21 Season Opener
jaesean-tate-targets-return-for-rockets-season-opener
HOUSTON — Forward Jae’Sean Tate is working to be available when the Houston Rockets host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Oct. 21, he told the Houston Chronicle on Oct. 10.
Tate, 29, underwent surgery on his right ankle during the offseason to correct an impingement that sidelined him for last year’s playoffs. The procedure also kept him out of training camp and the entire preseason, but the sixth-year veteran said his recovery is progressing.
“I’m going day by day,” Tate said. “I feel like I’ve been on a leg and a half the last couple of years, so I’m looking to move better and not think about it. I can’t wait.”
Head coach Ime Udoka noted that Tate and teammate Dorian Finney-Smith are on similar timetables, though Tate is “slightly ahead” in his rehab.
The ankle issue has bothered Tate since his second NBA season. Despite inconsistent minutes a year ago, he believes his versatility can secure him a spot in Udoka’s rotation.
“Whatever I’m asked to do, I can,” he said. “Whether it’s bringing the ball up, spacing in the corner, guarding top players, or going small ball, I’ll try to do it to the best of my ability.”
Houston re-signed Tate to a one-year, veteran-minimum contract this summer. The Ohio State product said remaining with the Rockets was his priority.
“I believe in the staff and everything here,” he explained. “It wouldn’t sit right with me to leave, especially now with all the pieces we’ve added. I’m excited to see what we can do.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
